Macon Bicycle
Accident Lawyer
These days, people of all ages have discovered bicycling. It is excellent exercise, eco-friendly and fun. Macon is one of many communities in Georgia encouraging bicycling with miles of dedicated bike lanes, plentiful public bike racks, and even a repair station. However, despite the pleasures of biking, there are always risks.
Although bicyclists and pedestrians account for less than one percent of those involved in motor vehicle crashes, they account for 17 percent of all traffic fatalities. Bicycle and pedestrian fatalities have increased significantly in recent years, and bicycle fatalities increased by 16 percent. For more information, reach out to a Macon bicycle accident lawyer.
If one of these bicycle accidents injured you or someone you love, the experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers can review your case and explain your legal options.
Although bicyclists and pedestrians account for less than one percent of those involved in motor vehicle crashes, they account for 17 percent of all traffic fatalities. Bicycle and pedestrian fatalities have increased significantly in recent years, and bicycle fatalities increased by 16 percent. For more information, reach out to a Macon bicycle accident lawyer.
If one of these bicycle accidents injured you or someone you love, the experienced bicycle accident lawyers at Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers can review your case and explain your legal options.
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The Basics of Bicycle Accident Lawsuits
As with all lawsuits, determining liability depends on the facts of each accident. Evidence such as police reports and witness testimony helps build a strong case. The first question is whether someone’s negligence caused the accident and the resulting injuries.
The injured person must prove the elements of negligence, which are:
The injured person must prove the elements of negligence, which are:
The existence of a legal duty that the defendant owed to the plaintiff
Defendant’s breach of that duty
Plaintiff’s sufferance of an injury
Proof that the defendant’s breach caused the injury
We can do all of that for you and more.
What Are The Most Common Causes Of Bicycle Accidents?
A combination of factors often leads to a collision. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that about a third of bicycle accident victims are injured when struck by a car. Many accidents involve negligent driving. For example, insufficient space between the motor vehicle and the bicycle can lead to a dangerous collision. Also, accidents in which a car rear-ends a bike are common, particularly at stop signs or signals.
Other risks of bicyclists sharing the road with motorists include:
Drivers who change lanes without signaling or checking blind spots
Drivers who fail to check for bicyclists in the bike lane before parking the car
Cars turning right across the bicyclist’s lane
A motorist turns left on a non-dedicated left-turn intersection
Any vehicle that fails to stop or yield when necessary
Passing on the right
Some common causes of bicycle accidents are:
01
Driver inattention
There are so many distractions for both drivers and bicyclists. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), it has become a significant cause of accidents. Each day eight people die, and 1,161 people are injured because of distracted drivers. Statistics show that a crash is about three times more likely if the driver is talking on the phone while driving. Texting is even worse. The collision rate is 23 times more likely if the driver is texting while behind the wheel. However, bicyclists may be wearing headphones or using hands-free devices while riding. Therefore, they may also not be paying attention to traffic or hazards.
02
Failure to yield
About 27 percent of crashes between bicycles and motor vehicles happen at intersections. In some cases, drivers do not realize that they must yield to bicyclists when sharing the road. However, driving aggressively or too fast can also cause failure to yield accidents. Frequently a driver attempts a left turn and hits an approaching bicyclist.
03
Speeding
The speed at which a vehicle travels plays a critical role in bicyclist safety. Speeding vehicles require more stopping time, and the drivers are less likely to avoid potential collisions. This is a risk even in areas with low-speed speed limits.
04
Dangerous road conditions
Hazardous roads are especially risky for bicyclists, partly because a two-wheeled bike is less stable than a four-wheeled vehicle. Therefore, unexpected changes in the road surface, such as sinkholes, loose gravel, sewer, grates, or uneven road surfaces, may lead to an accident. Thirteen percent of bike accident injuries result from poor road or bike lane conditions. If a dangerous road causes an accident, the governmental entity in charge of road maintenance may be liable.
05
Riding at night
Over half of all bicycle accidents occur at night. Bicycles are smaller and less visible than motor vehicles. Taking precautions such as proper lights, reflectors, and reflective clothing can reduce the risk of an accident.
06
Dooring
Many bicycle accidents happen on crowded urban streets. Bicyclists may have to ride close to parked cars. If a driver does not check for oncoming traffic, they may open the car door and hit the cyclist, known as “dooring.”
07
Impaired driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol hampers driving skills, causing impaired judgment and slower reaction time. Statistics show that alcohol and drug use cause one-third of all motor vehicle-related fatalities.
08
Bad weather
Visibility affects accident risk, so bad weather makes bicyclists more challenging to see. Also, a bike’s thin tires can make traction harder in rain, snow, or ice.
Steps To Take Following A Crash
If you have been involved in a bicycle accident, always obtain medical care as soon as possible. Remember that some injuries do not become apparent until later, and delaying treatment could have serious consequences.
If possible, carry a cell phone, some form of identification, or emergency contact information.
If possible, carry a cell phone, some form of identification, or emergency contact information.
Call the police. Sometimes the driver may try to persuade you that this is unnecessary, but a police report may be important to your claim.
Take contact information for insurance companies or others involved in the accident. Note names and contact information for any witnesses.
Take photos of any damage or injuries and the accident scene, including traffic signs, signals, and road hazards.
Do not apologize or accept blame. Do post comments or pictures about your accident on social media, as these may damage future legal action.
Do not sign documents or speak with an insurance representative until you consult our lawyers. Contact the dedicated attorneys at Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers to help protect your legal rights.
Common Injuries Suffered In A Bicycle Accident
More motor vehicles have safety features designed to protect drivers and passengers. However, bicyclists are vulnerable, even if they are wearing helmets or other protective gear.
Therefore, they often suffer severe or even fatal injuries in a crash.
Therefore, they often suffer severe or even fatal injuries in a crash.
01
Head and brain injuries
Traumatic brain injuries(TBIs) and other head and brain injuries are common in bicycle accidents. Although helmets can undoubtedly reduce the risk of brain injuries, they do not offer complete protection against every type of impact.
02
Internal injuries
Bicyclists can suffer internal injuries in a crash, such as kidney damage, a ruptured spleen, or lacerated liver. Such injuries may happen when the rider hits the handlebar or during a “dooring” accident. Often, internal bleeding is not readily apparent. However, left untreated, it can be serious.
03
Neck and back injuries
During a bike crash, the injured person’s neck may snap violently back and forth, causing an issue commonly known as whiplash. A fall or collision can cause injuries to the rider’s back and shoulders. Damage to the spinal cord can leave an injured bicyclist permanently disabled.
04
Soft tissue injuries
These injuries to ligaments, tendons, or muscles often occur in joints such as ankles, wrists, elbows, and the pelvis.
05
Fractures
Dealing with broken bones is usually painful and troublesome. Treating complicated fractures may require surgery or rehabilitative therapy.
06
Face, eye, and dental injuries
At least 14 bones in the face can be severely damaged in a bicycle crash.
Client Reviews
“I would recommend the professionals of Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. to anyone looking for a low effort experience. The constantly negotiated my case and received everything I needed after my accident and more!”
— Alicia L Via Google
“I came to BuckHead Law trying to get a payment under “Diminished Value” for my car. They took my case and handled it as if they had done these claims on a regular basis. I had NO clue I was the first person that they won this type of claim for. I have since referred my daughter and 2 nieces to them and everybody is amazed at the work they do. Hands down the best law group in Atlanta!!”
— Ursula Johnson via Google
“This was the first accident I’ve been involved in and I am so excited that I went through it with Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C.. They are very amazing company and I will refer them to anyone. I love how my attorney kept me updated and kept in touch with me I did not have to go and find him very amazing company. Thank you”
— Ashley Shankle via Google
“I received representation from Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. on an accident caused by another driver. They negotiated with the insurance company’s lawyers effectively, and even after my case was settled and closed they negotiated to decrease my medical bills. I would 100% recommend this law group.”
— Alicia T. Morrow, GA via Yelp
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“I’ve worked with Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers, P.C. on my daughter’s accident. They handled everything for me in a professional manner and I was very pleased with how everything was handled. Definitely recommend them!! Five stars”
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“I love these people, it is such a great environment! Everyone there is super understanding. They keep you involved so you always know what is going on. Even though they are all professionals, they make you feel like you are a part of their little family. It is really great experience!”
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“I have never experienced a group of lawyers that are really concerned about your case and truly work hard to get you the most out of your settlement….best experience I’ve ever had.
— Vickie W. Atlanta, GA via Yelp
Contact Our Macon Macon Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
Bicycles are great fun and convenient transportation, but bicycle accidents can have tragic consequences. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, consult the experienced, compassionate attorneys at Buckhead Law Saxton Injury & Accident Lawyers. For more information or to arrange a free consultation, contact us online or call (478) 226-4148.
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(404) 890-5631 or (770) GET PAID.
